#noVANber petition targeting 100,000 signatures

#noVANber

A campaign aimed at introducing measures to deter van thieves has reached more than 20,000 signatures – and is aiming to hit 100,000 to be discussed in Parliament.

The #noVANber campaign is encouraging all tradespeople to pledge their support and call on the Government to look at ways they can protect tradespeople from van tool theft.

To be debated in Parliament, the petition must reach 100,000 signatures within six months. The petition is already being backed by a large section of the plumbing community, including tradespeople and manufacturers.

The petition states: “The loss of a van and/or tools can severely impact on a tradesperson.

“Even if they are insured, sourcing replacements, organising van repairs and rebooking appointments means significant time out of work.

“For those who cannot find affordable insurance, this can lead to the loss of livelihood.

“While tradespeople can take preventative measures to protect their vans and tools, this only goes so far in deterring thieves.

“We are, therefore, calling on the Government to consider what more can be done to tackle this problem, whether it be introducing new legislation, additional sentencing guidelines or regulations on the reselling of tools.

“Ultimately, thieves must understand that such a crime is not profitable and that stealing a livelihood carries with it commensurate penalties.”

According to the Office for National Statistics, vehicle-related theft has accounted for around one in seven crimes (between 12% and 15%) in the past decade. Between two thirds and three quarters of these occur at home.

Backed by his local MP Nicky Morgan, Peter Booth (P B Plumber), who started the petition, said: “Whether you’re a plumber or an electrician or a decorator , whatever trade you’re in, you need your van and your tools to work.

“When someone steals your tools, you can’t work until they’re replaced. This can cost thousands of pounds in tools, van repair and missed work.

“At the minute the punishments are not enough to deter thieves, this needs to change – not just for us, but for future generations of tradesmen and women.

“I also want to stop the sale of stolen tools.

“By signing the petition you can make a difference, and by sharing it with you friends and family you can make this happen quicker.”

To deter van thieves, LeaseVan.co.uk has made a list of tips to deter thieves which you can view here.

You can sign the #noVANber petition at https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/231177